In the Joint Chairmen's Report released earlier this year, understaffing at the Office of the Public Defender was a key issue identified about the health of the office.
Severe understaffing and turnover has led to heavy caseloads for current employees at OPD, and no district or job title has escaped without feeling the crunch of these staffing issues.
You can read the full report by clicking here.
Staffing issues is among one of the main priorities that we as the Maryland Defenders Union have been fighting to resolve since we organized in 2020. This report shows now more than ever that we need to have a seat at the table and help solve these staffing issues before the agency becomes even more understaffed and losing experienced, well-trained employees to other workplaces.
Do you want to get involved in fighting for a better OPD? Join MDU now!